SHBG Test – Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin

About this test

Why Test SHBG?

Understanding your Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) levels can provide insight into the balance of certain sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen.

SHBG is a protein produced by the liver that binds to these hormones in the bloodstream. When hormones are bound to SHBG, they are generally not biologically active. Measuring SHBG can therefore help estimate the proportion of hormones that remain free and biologically available in the body.

Conditions Linked to SHBG Imbalances

Changes in SHBG levels may occur alongside various hormonal or metabolic conditions.

• High SHBG levels may be associated with lower levels of free hormones. This can sometimes be linked to symptoms such as reduced libido, fatigue, mood changes, or fertility concerns.

• Low SHBG levels are often observed in conditions associated with metabolic changes, such as insulin resistance, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, or obesity.

Measuring SHBG can help provide context when evaluating hormone levels together with other markers such as testosterone or estrogen.

How the GetTested SHBG Test Works

The GetTested SHBG Test uses a dried blood spot (DBS) collection method that allows you to collect your sample conveniently at home.

1. Order Your Kit
   Purchase your SHBG test kit online.

2. Collect Your Sample
   Follow the instructions provided to collect a small finger-prick blood sample on the DBS collection card.

3. Mail to Lab
   Send your sample to our CLIA-certified laboratory using the prepaid return packaging.

4. Receive Digital Results
   Your results will typically be available in your secure online portal within 2–5 business days after the laboratory receives your sample.

Benefits of Dried Blood Spot (DBS) Testing

The DBS method offers several advantages for at-home hormone testing:

• Convenience: Collect your sample at home without visiting a clinic.

• Sample Stability: DBS samples remain stable during transport, allowing reliable laboratory analysis.

• Validated Method: When collected correctly, DBS testing can provide results comparable to traditional blood sampling methods.

• Accessibility: Useful for individuals who prefer at-home testing or have limited access to laboratory services.

Who Should Consider an SHBG Test?

An SHBG test may be relevant for individuals who want to monitor hormone-related markers, including:

• People experiencing symptoms that may be related to hormonal imbalance, such as fatigue, libido changes, or mood fluctuations.

• Individuals diagnosed with conditions that may influence hormone levels, such as PCOS or insulin resistance.

• Those undergoing hormone therapy who want to monitor related biomarkers.

• Health-conscious individuals interested in gaining insight into hormone balance.

For personalized interpretation of your results, discussing them with a healthcare professional is recommended.

Biomarkers included

• Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG): Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a protein produced by the liver that binds to sex hormones, primarily testosterone and estrogen, in the bloodstream. By binding these hormones, SHBG regulates their bioavailability, meaning only the 'free' or unbound hormones can interact with target cells and exert their biological effects. Therefore, SHBG levels are crucial for understanding the true hormon

How to prepare

No specific fasting required. Follow kit instructions for optimal sample collection.

Frequently asked questions

What is the GetTested SHBG Test and what does it measure?

The GetTested SHBG Test is a convenient, at-home dried blood spot test that precisely measures your Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) levels. SHBG is a crucial protein synthesized in the liver that binds to sex hormones, including testosterone, estradiol, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), transporting them in the blood. By quantifying SHBG, this test helps determine the biologically available, or 'free,' fraction of these hormones accessible to your tissues, which is vital for understanding hormonal balance beyond total hormone levels.

Who should consider taking an SHBG test and why is it important?

Individuals experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as low libido, fatigue, mood changes, or infertility, may benefit from an SHBG test. It's particularly important for diagnosing conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women, where elevated SHBG can reduce free testosterone, or hypogonadism in men, where atypical SHBG levels can obscure true androgen status. Understanding your SHBG level provides critical insights into the functional availability of your sex hormones, informing personalized health strategies.

How does the home dried blood spot (DBS) collection work, and is it accurate compared to venipuncture?

The GetTested SHBG Test utilizes a simple and user-friendly dried blood spot (DBS) collection kit, allowing you to collect your sample comfortably from home. You'll perform a quick finger prick, place a few drops of blood onto a specialized card, and mail it to our certified lab. DBS technology, when properly executed, offers high accuracy and reliability for SHBG measurement, comparable to traditional venipuncture. It provides excellent sample stability and eliminates the need for a clinic visit, a significant advantage for busy professionals or those with limited lab access.

What is the typical turnaround time for results, and how will I receive them?

Once your dried blood spot sample arrives at our laboratory, your SHBG results are typically processed and available within 2-5 business days. You will receive a secure, digital report via our online portal, detailing your SHBG level. This user-friendly report includes a clear interpretation of your results within established normal ranges, empowering you to discuss them knowledgeably with your healthcare provider for further guidance or potential lifestyle adjustments.

What do high or low SHBG levels indicate, and how should I interpret my results?

Interpreting SHBG results requires understanding its role in hormone availability. High SHBG levels can lead to symptoms often associated with low free testosterone or estrogen, as more hormones are bound and less are active. Conversely, low SHBG may indicate higher free hormone levels, potentially contributing to conditions like insulin resistance or increased androgen activity. Your comprehensive digital report will place your SHBG value within a normal reference range, and discussing these results with a healthcare professional is crucial for a personalized clinical assessment, especially in conjunction with other hormone panels.

What is included in the price of the GetTested SHBG Test?

The price of the GetTested SHBG Test includes everything required for a seamless and accurate assessment of your SHBG levels. This encompasses the complete home dried blood spot collection kit with detailed instructions, all laboratory analysis fees, and a secure, personalized digital results report. Our transparent pricing ensures you receive comprehensive physiological insights into your sex hormone-binding globulin without any hidden costs, providing exceptional value for convenient, at-home hormonal screening.

Customer reviews

5.0/5 (1)

• 5/5 — This test kit was super easy to use at home. The instructions were clear, and I got my results back quickly. Very happy with the convenience.